Winter magic arrives in Bavaria’s capital long before Santa slides down any chimney. The first Christmas market in Munich opens its gates this Saturday — nearly seven weeks before Christmas Eve — setting the tone for a holiday season filled with bright lights, themed attractions and seasonal indulgence.
Winterworld Motorworld in Freimann marks the official start of the city’s beloved Christkindlmarkt tradition.
A unique blend of nostalgia and modern holiday fun
Set against the backdrop of the historic former maintenance works, the Winterworld invites visitors to enjoy festive drinks, traditional food and a lively programme stretching deep into December. This year’s theme nods to a popular holiday classic: “Driving Home for Christmas”.
The market mixes vintage charm with modern spectacle — including Munich’s tallest Christmas pyramid and a rotating bar inspired by retro fairground carousels.
Giant talking moose takes center stage
Organisers have expanded the experience for 2025 with several new highlights. The most eye-catching attraction: a world-record-sized, lip-syncing moose, measuring 2.30 metres high and four metres long. It joins a growing list of festive activities that already includes:
- Ice rink for skating
- Classic children’s carousel
- Giant Ferris wheel
- New miniature train ride for kids
- Extended ice stock lane, now 12.5 metres long
Families will also find cosy private huts and warm lounge areas ideal for group outings or holiday celebrations.
Special Wednesdays dedicated to children
To make the experience even more inclusive, every Wednesday becomes kids’ day, featuring special surprises and family-friendly entertainment. Whether enjoying hot chocolate, children’s punch or simply exploring the winter village, younger visitors are placed right at the heart of the fun.
Adults have plenty to look forward to as well, from mulled wine and warming cocktails to seasonal bowls served in festive style.
Opening hours, access and closures
Winterworld Motorworld runs from 7 November to 28 December 2025.
Opening hours:
• Monday: Closed
• Tue–Thu: 13:00–22:00
• Fri–Sat: 12:00–23:00
• Sun & public holidays: 11:00–22:00
Closed on:
• 16 November — Volkstrauertag
• 19 November — Buß- und Bettag
• 23 November — Totensonntag
• 24 December — Christmas Eve
Getting there is easy: the venue offers a large on-site car park, and visitors using public transport can take U6 to Freimann station, just a short walk from the market.
A festive head start for Munich’s holiday spirit
With more than 30 Christmas markets lighting up the city throughout November and December, Munich remains one of Europe’s most enchanting holiday destinations. And with Winterworld Motorworld opening the celebrations, excitement is already building for all that comes next.
